Cheesy Potato Gratin

This Potato Au Gratin is a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish perfect for any occasion. Made with tender one potato slices layered in a velvety cheese sauce, this classic potato gratin recipe is both indulgent and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for gratin recipes for a holiday meal or a comforting side dish, this au gratin potato recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food – Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying.
• Simple and Elegant – Inspired by Julia Child recipes, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or potlucks.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the cheese, seasonings, or add-ins for variety.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepped in advance and baked when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or your favorite blend)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp butter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the sauce – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Heat until warm but not boiling.
3. Layer the potatoes – Arrange half of the thinly sliced one potato layers in the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
4. Repeat – Add the remaining potatoes and pour the warm cream mixture over them. Top with the rest of the cheese.
5. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve – Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your potatoes recipes creation!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Bacon – Crispy bacon bits make a flavorful addition to this au gratin potato recipe.
• Make It Herbaceous – Add thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
• Spicy Kick – Use pepper jack cheese or add a pinch of cayenne.
• Extra Creamy – Increase the heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Different Cheeses – Try Swiss, Parmesan, or mozzarella for a new twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

What’s the best cheese for au gratin potato recipes?

Cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of sharp cheeses work best.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the difference between potato au gratin and scalloped potatoes?

Potato gratin recipes use cheese, while scalloped potatoes rely more on cream.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Sweet potatoes create a delicious twist on classic gratin recipes.

How do I get a crispy top?

Broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy finish.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half or a milk and butter mixture.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

About 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. A mandoline slicer works best.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with roasted meats, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! This potatoes recipes dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes! A sprinkle of breadcrumbs adds extra crunch.

Conclusion

This potato gratin recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting classic that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re inspired by Julia Child recipes, searching for au gratin recipes, or simply want a delicious way to prepare recipes potatoes, this dish will not disappoint. Try it today for a rich and satisfying side dish!